Precious Antique Chalice in Solid Silver Gilt and Enamel. France, Pps. S. XX

Wonderful antique gold-plated solid-silver chalice decorated with embossed silver filigree work and fine enameled parts. This item comes from France, where it was manufactured in the early 20th century by the goldsmith Jules Passebois. At the edge of the cup we can see the goldsmiths mark and the French silver hallmark too. The chalice comes with a delicate gold-plated silver paten with hand-engraved decoration and similar hallmarks. The two pieces can be stored in a gorgeous antique suitcase, a gorgeous item itself, and that retains its original key. The whole set remains in excellent condition. The chalices base has a lobed shape and is decorated with enamel almond-shaped medallions. Two of them depict portraits of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary, colorful and well preserved. The third one contains a carved Lation cross. The base is conical in shape; up the stem we can see the main node, with a lovely decoration composed of small blue, white, golden and pink enameled round pieces. The base, node and cup are embellished with silver embossed filigrees that make up complex shapes. This filigree work surround the enamels and make them stand out, creating an intricate and beautiful decoration. This is especially notable at the cups base, where the silver filigree work creates a fine lace over which the small blue and white enamel pieces stand out. The paten is decorated with a engraved motif depicting the Agnus Dei and framed by the inscription PANIS VIVUS AGNUS DEI (Bread of Life, Lamb of God). The storing case is dark red with golden fringes and brass fasteners, handle and keyhole. The lock is in working order and preserves the original key. This superb gold-plated silver chalice and paten set with enameled decoration will shine in any collection. It is an antique piece with personality, history and great decorative power.Measurements: Chalice: Bases Width: 5.90 in / 15 cm. Cups Width: 3.85 in / 9.8 cm. Height: 9.84 in / 25 cm. Weight: 555 g. Paten: Diameter: 5.82 in / 14.8 cm. Weight: 142 g.